Grizzly Blu-ray Review

Severin Films brings Grizzly to the forefront with an impressive Blu-ray release, owing to an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in a 2.39:1 aspect ratio. This presentation benefits from a 2K scan of the internegative, surpassing previous editions such as Scorpion Releasing’s Blu-ray. The film’s palette is effectively more vivid, and detail levels are commendable throughout. Grain structure maintains a natural filmic texture, though some sequences show variations, particularly the second unit material of the bear in the wild. A few minor blemishes and scratches are intermittently present, and certain scenes display a slight green hue, particularly around the eighteen-minute mark. Despite these minor issues, the overall transfer is impressive, capturing the essence of the original film material.

The 2K scan reveals significant improvements in image quality, offering viewers detailed visuals of facial features, gore closeups, and the picturesque Georgia wilderness. The Blu-ray retains a grainy texture that enhances its authentic film appearance, while colors emerge vigorously with bold primaries and realistic skin tones. The contrast is generally solid; however, black levels can occasionally appear a bit dense—a likely result of the original shooting conditions and budget limitations. Specks of dirt, grit, and stray hairs contribute to a nostalgic drive-in theater experience, which may resonate well with audiences appreciating a vintage touch. Although not flawless, this transfer evokes high-quality drive-in print aesthetics, ensuring that Grizzly looks better than it ever has before.

"Grizzly" boasts a robust and engaging DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 Mono track that lends remarkable energy to Robert O. Ragland's score, performed by the National Philharmonic Orchestra of London. The sound effects, from the visceral roars of the bear to the precise gunfire and helicopter blades, are delivered with excellent fidelity and precision. This track is clean and free from usual audio imperfections such as hiss, pops, or dropouts, ensuring an immersive listening experience without any distractions.

The mono mix offers a surprisingly spacious and atmospheric soundscape, effectively immersing the audience in the deep woods setting. Dialogue is rendered clearly and accurately without requiring constant volume adjustments, making it easy to follow even during intense action sequences. The mix handles layered sound effects effectively, from screams and gurgles to the dynamic orchestral score, contributing to an overall engaging auditory experience. Optional English subtitles are available, ensuring accessibility for all viewers.

The Blu-ray release of "Grizzly" offers a comprehensive suite of extras that will captivate any fan of the film. The audio commentaries, featuring Mondo Digital's Nathaniel Thompson and author Troy Howarth, as well as a slower-paced but insightful track with producer David Sheldon and actress Joan McCall, provide a rich examination of the film's production, its creators, and its impact. Stephen Thrower's deep dive into William Girdler's career adds valuable context. The audio interview with J. Patrick Kelly III offers behind-the-scenes insights backed by vintage footage, while interviews with Tom Arcuragi, David Sheldon, and Joan McCall further enhance understanding of the film's creation. Archival featurettes like "Movie Making in the Wilderness" and "Jaws with Claws," along with radio spots and trailers, round out this robust offering.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Featuring Nathaniel Thompson and Troy Howarth.
• Audio Commentary: Featuring producer David Sheldon and actress Joan McCall.
• Nightmare USA: Stephen Thrower on the Career of William Girdler: Detailed overview of Girdler's life and career.
• Making Movies with Girdler: Audio interview with J. Patrick Kelly III, accompanied by vintage footage.
• The Towering Fury: Interview with actor Tom Arcuragi.
• The Grizzly Details: Interviews with producer David Sheldon and actress Joan McCall.
• Movie Making in the Wilderness: Archival making-of featurette.
• Jaws with Claws: Archival featurette from previous home video releases.
• Radio Spots
• Trailers

Grizzly, often dubbed "Jaws with Claws," stands as a prominent entry in the eco-horror subgenre that surged post-Jaws era. Directed by William Girdler, this 1976 film capitalized on the success of its maritime predecessor by transposing the terror to a national park setting. Shot on location in Georgia with a modest budget, Grizzly managed to become the top-grossing independent film of its year. The film's narrative is emblematic of producer Edward L. Montoro’s penchant for crafting profitable, albeit derivative, cinema. Essentially a thrilling blend of bear attacks, suspenseful sequences, and engaging on-location cinematography, Grizzly delivers both action and gore in a manner that keeps the audience engaged from start to finish.

The film revolves around Park Ranger Michael Kelly, portrayed by Christopher George, whose gravely dedicated performance anchors the story. Alongside him, Richard Jaeckel's character Arthur Scott combines elements of both Hooper and Quint from Jaws, adding depth to the ensemble cast. Despite some hammy acting moments and early attack sequences that are somewhat lackluster, Girdler's direction ensures that the pacing never falters. When narrative gaps appear, they are swiftly filled with judiciously gory bear attack scenes that uphold the film’s suspense. The visceral thrill is amplified by the surprising amount of violence incorporated into what is nominally a PG-rated film.

While Grizzly may not match Jaws in terms of cinematic quality or nuanced storytelling, it excels with its audacious approach within the "Jawsploitation" subgenre. Severin Films has done a commendable job in bringing this cult classic to Blu-ray, preserving its legacy for horror aficionados. Notably, the movie’s real bear scenes lend a degree of authenticity not often seen in such films. Grizzly ultimately succeeds in being a straightforward, entertaining spectacle that hits its mark with a mix of suspense and action, making it a standout among Jaws imitators.

Severin Films has breathed new life into "Grizzly" with their impressive Blu-ray release, ensuring that fans and newcomers alike experience the film at its finest. While "Grizzly" unabashedly borrows heavily from “Jaws,” viewers should prepare for a wild ride filled with entertaining gore and compelling performances. The video transfer is superb, providing crisp images that enhance the visceral nature of the film. The audio quality stands strong, ensuring every growl from the titular bear is heard in crystal clear sound, magnifying the tension and urgency of the narrative.

Enthusiasts of the Animal Attack sub-genre will find "Grizzly" an essential addition to their collection. Severin’s package includes a bounty of valuable extras, notably a historical commentary and an insightful interview with horror historian Stephen Thrower. These supplements add enriching context and depth, making this release more than just a visual upgrade. The bonus content is robust, offering hours of additional entertainment and information that will satisfy both long-time fans and those unfamiliar with the film.

In conclusion, although "Grizzly" may not rival the narrative depth of cinema's finest, its charm lies in its unabashed embrace of the genre’s tropes and its execution. If you're yearning for “Jaws” on land and appreciate well-crafted horror films with ample gore and action, this Blu-ray is an outstanding pick. Severin Films’ dedication to delivering high-quality releases is evident, making this edition of "Grizzly" highly recommended for fans of classic horror.